‘The Jerry Springer Show’ sued by family of Kentucky man who killed himself after appearing in an episode

The family of a Kentucky man who committed suicide following an appearance on “The Jerry Springer Show” is suing the famous television host as well as NBC.

The wrongful death lawsuit, recently filed in Jefferson Circuit Court, alleges that Blake Alvey was ambushed when he filmed his episode of the controversial talk show on May 8, 2018. It was on the set of “The Jerry Springer Show” that he learned his fiancée had been unfaithful and of her plans to leave him – at that point, she’d already sold the engagement ring.

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The episode, “Gay Phase… Over,” aired on May 24 and just a few weeks later, Alvey was dead. He shot himself “as a result of severe emotional and mental suffering and anguish” on June 3, 2018, according to the suit, cited by WDRB.

A description for the episode reads: “Cassie has moved on — to her boyfriend’s good friend.”

During the episode, Alvey’s former fiancée reveals to the studio audience that she’d been dating his friend, who also makes an appearance on the show. Alvey and his pal at one point get into a scuffle over their shared love interest before being separated by security in true Springer show fashion.

“'The Jerry Springer Show’ was designed to humiliate and exploit people like Blake, while the Defendants disregard the devastating consequences that their conduct can have on people lives,” the suit reads.

It further contends the show’s bid to “elicit an extreme reaction” from Alvey proves its “reckless disregard for the lives and safety of others.”

Attorney Brenton Stanley, who is representing Alvey’s loved ones, argued in a statement that “The Jerry Springer Show” caused Alvey “great emotional distress, leading to his tragic and untimely death."

The lawsuit, which also names Alvey’s ex as a defendant, was filed on behalf of his family and infant son. They are seeking unspecified monetary damages.